York Downs Update

The Unionville Sub Committee of Council held another public meeting on Monday September 25th to receive a presentation from the developer’s planning representative, Maria Gatzios, outlining a revised proposal for the redevelopment of York Downs. Around 150 members of the public were present, including many from the Normandale, Ritter, Delhi sub division who spoke passionately on several issues of concern. Thank you for participating.

The revised proposal contained several improvements in response to our previous input, including;

The relocation of a midrise medium density residential building from 16th Ave to the interior of the development.

Elimination of one of the North-South collector roads to create a contiguous green area, and connecting trails.

A path opening onto Warden at the West side.

Improved storm water management.

Better alignment with existing properties at the North boundary

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Several concerns remain however, including the traffic impact on already clogged arterial roads, especially 16th Ave, approval from TRCA of the revised flood protection plan, and the plan for a mixed use, mid-rise (Red Block 12), along 16th Avenue, potentially 60 feet in height, facing the backyards on Ritter, Delhi and Normandale.

Next steps for the City and the applicant include completing discussions and negotiations on the new proposal, reviews by external agencies, staff recommendations to Council and subsequent response and decision by Council, potentially in the first half of next year. There is also an OMB pre-hearing conference scheduled for November 7th.

Next steps for URA members will be workshopped at the upcoming URA meeting on October 2nd at 7pm in the Pan Am Centre. All input is welcome. We need to formulate our response to the new proposal, including updating our issues list, how to engage in the OMB process, use of petitions if deemed useful and continuing engagement with the City on the process towards approval/modification.

May 6th, 2017 - Housing Affordability Forum

With the apparent unstoppable rise in house prices, Markham Deputy Mayor Jack Heath and the Unionville Residents Association (formerly the Unionville Residents Association) will be hosting a "Housing Affordability Forum" with details shown below.

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